All About New Coronavirus Strain Found in the UK

In the United Kingdom, a new strain (but not a new variant), of the virus has been found. The variant was first detected in September and in fact in November, a quarter of cases were due to the new variant in London.

The mutated variant is raising doubts and queries about the spread of the virus, its nature, as well as its impact on the vaccination drive that has already begun. The British scientists are trying to figure out if the quick spread of the new variant of the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 is linked to key mutations that they found in the strain.

The strain puts a question mark on vaccines that are currently being approved and administered in the UK as well as the US where the vaccination process has already started for the frontline workers in the health sector as those who are vulnerable.

Theoretically said, this new variant, which they have named “VUI - 202012/01” could spread more easily as per the scientists in the UK. This is because it includes a genetic mutation in the “spike” protein.

The British Government believes that the rise in new infections may partially be linked to the new variant and has therefore applied maximum COVID-19 restrictions in its capital city along with several other areas.

As per reports, the doctors in India have not witnessed the strain here. But as Dr. Rakesh Mishra says, we are watching for mutations as they are constantly happening. It is restricted to a few countries as of now and is not something to be worried about now. Dr. Rakesh is the Director, CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad.

Disclaimer: This article is issued in the general public interest and meant for general information purposes only. Readers are advised not to rely on the contents of the article as conclusive in nature and should research further or consult an expert in this regard.